How do I Know When My Cat is Sick

The following signs should indicate to you that something is not right:

- Your cat's behavior changes - it becomes withdrawn and less active.

- Your cat exhibits a change in appetite that lasts for a few days. Loss ofappetite (anorexia) or increased appetite (polyphagia) may indicatedisease.

- Your cat is urinating more or less than normal.

- Your cat exhibits either vomiting or diarrhea for an extended period. Fluidis lost during vomiting and diarrhea, and dehydration (depletion of bodywater), a serious situation, can result.

Is Your Cat Dehydrated?

Pick up a fold of skin in the middle back area. If it snaps back rapidly, yourpet is not dehydrated. If it stays up or returns slowly, dehydration is present. Donot test the skin in the neck area; this is normally loose in many animals and willgive you false results. If dehydration is present, your doctor will find the underlyingcause and will give fluids intravenously (in the blood vessel) or subcutaneously(under the skin) to replace the water lost.

Is Your Cat in Pain?

Lameness, a stiff neck, reluctance to get up or lie down, or tense abdominalmuscles are indicators that your pet is in pain.

What Is Your Cat's Temperature?

A normal temperature is from 101.0°F to 102.5°F. Anything higher indicates a)roblem that needs professional attention. To use a thermometer, follow these steps: